Chapter Seven

Jason watched Elizabeth with Cameron. Sometimes it was still difficult to imagine her as someone's mother but she was. The little boy sitting between them proved that. Cameron was so much like Elizabeth in so many ways Jason found himself drawn to the little boy. It seemed odd to Jason that he could care so much for someone he had only just met. Nevertheless, the fact was Cameron Webber found a way in to Jason's heart. He did not stop to analyze it Jason just accepted the new feelings of protectiveness and love.

"Thank you." Elizabeth said quietly, causing Jason to look up at her.

"I didn't do anything."

"Why do you always say that?" She let out a small laugh.

"Because it's true. All I did was listen, Elizabeth. You made your own decision."

"You're the only one who does."

"Does what listen?" He found it hard to believe, no one else listened to her.

"Yeah. It feels like everyone else is pushing me to do or be what they want. Sometimes I feel like I am being pulled in a hundred different directions. And then there you are. How do you always know when I need you?" He would never know how much she truly appreciated the fact he didn't try to push her into something she didn't want.

"I just want you happy. You know that right?" He stated simply tilting his head to look into her eyes, wanting to see that she believed in that.

"Yeah. This listening thing goes both ways you know. If you ever need to talk about Sam... Or not."

"Not. I appreciate the offer but there is nothing to talk about. I meant what I said to Carly."

"Is this because of what Manny did? You know what never mind I asked." She shook her head realizing that he just said he didn't want to talk about it.

"It's fine. And no. Manny has nothing to do with it. Sam and I just cannot work. She... she made me her life. I realized that what I felt was based on... how I felt about Lila. Sam became an..."

"Obligation. Yeah I understand that."

"I should go it's getting late. Thank you for dinner."

"It was no problem. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

"Elizabeth you know if you or Cameron ever need anything you can count on me. Right?" They walked to the door together.

"I know." Elizabeth said softly. "Good night."

"Night." Jason waited until he heard Elizabeth lock the door behind him before leaving. He tried not to think of all the security problems he saw while in Elizabeth's apartment. Or the fact he knew she deserved better. Jason refused to be another person trying to pressure her.

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Mac read the final reports on Lucky and Manny Ruiz. Their deaths kept the department busy for the last few days. With the last of the reports from the medical examiner, Mac could now close the case. Right after he talked with Elizabeth Spencer.

Lucky's toxicology report showed high levels of painkillers. Mac had to wonder if the young nurse knew and if she was acquiring pills for her husband. Mac hoped that was not the case. He hated the idea of arresting Elizabeth but he would. After all, it was his job.

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Emily's life was a wreck. Her relationship with Sonny had fallen apart. Her best friend died leaving her other best friend a widow. And to top it off her brother was miserable.

At least she could do something about her brother. All she had to do was remind Jason of how much he loved Sam. He was only staying away to protect her from being hurt even more. Emily had to show him that staying away was hurting Sam even more. Jason could never stand to cause people pain. This was going to be easy.

Then she could move on to Elizabeth. Her friend was in desperate need of direction. Emily was going to make sure Elizabeth made the right decisions.